‘Honor Flight’ teaches students about history, current events

WASILLA — Some 38 students in kindergarten through eighth grade at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School in Wasilla wrote letters to veterans in the Last Frontier Honor Flight traveling to Washington, D.C., to visit the National World War II memorial. In a meaningful way, students also connected with current events.

Here are some sample notes to veterans from students in Joyce Lund’s kindergarten through third-grade class:

• “Dear Soldier: You are so brave! Did you get hurt? I know you stepped right up and fought for our country.”

• “Dear Soldier: I hope you have a great Honor Flight to Washington. My grandma’s dad was in the Army in your war and I want to thank you for ending World War II.”

• “Dear Soldier: In World War II, you were good, brave men from the state of Alaska. Now you are traveling far away to see your memorial. I can’t wait until you come home safe again.”

The students’ notes were given to the men in advance of their trip to Washington, D.C., to view the memorial erected in their honor.

The common theme that united the students’ words was one of gratitude.

The Last Frontier Honor Flight’s mission is to transport World War II, Alaska Territorial Guard and Korean War veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices — at no cost to the veterans. For more information, visit tlfhonorflight.org.